Among all former pre-Indo-European peoples, the Basques alone have been able to resist cultural assimilation by their larger and more powerful neighbours and to retain a distinct language. Yet, the Basques have failed to develop any sense of political unity. Drawing upon a wide range of archaeological and historical evidence, this study unravels the troubled origins of this most remarkable and enigmatic people. Roger Collins focuses on the crucial period extending from the Roman Conquest of the Iberian peninisula to the late twelfth century.